Inequal: meaning, definitions and examples

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inequal

[ ɪˈnɪkwəl ]

Adjective

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

mathematics

Not equal; unequal. Used to describe a comparison between two values where one is greater than, less than, or not equal to the other.

Synonyms

disproportionate, unequal, uneven.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inequal	This word is rarely used in contemporary English. It might appear in older texts or specialized legal or economic contexts to describe a lack of equality. The laws were criticized for being inequal
unequal	This word is used when comparing two or more things that do not have the same value, size, or quality. It is often used in discussing social issues, rights, or resources. There is an unequal distribution of wealth in the country The team suffered because of unequal skills among its members
uneven	Use this word to describe something that is not level or consistent. It often refers to surfaces, performances, or conditions. The road ahead is very uneven Their performance throughout the season was quite uneven
disproportionate	Use this word to describe something that is out of proportion or not in proper relation to something else. It is often used in discussions about fairness, justice, or resource distribution. The punishment was disproportionate to the crime The company's profits are disproportionate to the wages they pay their employees

Examples of usage

The inequality 5 > 3 means that 5 is greater than 3.
In the equation 2x + 3 < 10, x can take various values that satisfy the inequality.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

social sciences

Characterized by disparities or differences, especially in opportunities or treatment.

Synonyms

disproportionate, uneven, unfair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inequal	Typically used to describe situations where there is an absence of equality, in a general sense or in specific metrics such as size, number, or rights. This word is rarely used; 'unequal' is more common. The distribution of resources among the communities was inequal. Their opportunities were inequal due to socioeconomic differences.
uneven	Best used when describing something that is not level, balanced, or symmetrical, often in physical contexts. The surface of the road was uneven, making the ride quite uncomfortable. His performance was uneven throughout the season, with many ups and downs.
unfair	Used when something is not just or equitable, typically conveying a sense of moral wrongness. It was unfair of the teacher to give her a bad grade without explaining why. The company's hiring practices were deemed unfair by the workers.
disproportionate	Appropriate when referring to a significant imbalance or when the size or amount of one element is much larger or smaller than it should be in relation to another. The CEO's salary was disproportionate compared to the rest of the staff. The punishment was disproportionate to the crime committed.

Examples of usage

The education system in the country is plagued by inequal access to resources.
There is a growing concern about inequal distribution of wealth in society.

Translations

Translations of the word "inequal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desigual

🇮🇳 असमान

🇩🇪 ungleich

🇮🇩 tidak sama

🇺🇦 нерівний

🇵🇱 nierówny

🇯🇵 不平等

🇫🇷 inégal

🇪🇸 desigual

🇹🇷 eşitsiz

🇰🇷 불평등한

🇸🇦 غير متساوٍ

🇨🇿 nerovný

🇸🇰 nerovný

🇨🇳 不平等的

🇸🇮 neenak

🇮🇸 ójafn

🇰🇿 тең емес

🇬🇪 არათანაბარი

🇦🇿 bərabərsiz

🇲🇽 desigual

Etymology

The word 'inequal' originated from the Latin word 'inequalis', which is a combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'aequalis' meaning 'equal'. The concept of inequality has been present throughout human history, with various societies grappling with disparities in wealth, power, and opportunities. The term has been used in mathematics to describe relationships between values and in social sciences to highlight disparities and injustices.